Post - Newsroom

Article · February 3, 2025

What to Do If You're Driving When an Earthquake Hits

Earthquakes can strike without warning and knowing what to do if you're driving during one can make a significant difference in your safety. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this potentially dangerous situation. Remember: Stop. Buckle. Wait.

When the Shaking Starts

The first and most important step is to stay calm. Panicking can impair your judgment and lead to dangerous decisions. Take a deep breath and focus on your immediate actions.

STOP: Pull Over Safely

Find a safe spot: If you feel the ground shaking, slow down and try to pull over to the side of the road as quickly and safely as possible.
Stay in the open: Avoid stopping under overpasses, bridges, trees, or power lines, as these structures may collapse during an earthquake.
Turn off the engine: Once you've pulled over, turn off the engine and set the parking brake. This reduces the risk of your car moving unexpectedly during the shaking.

BUCKLE: Keep Belts and Car Seats Fastened

Keep your seatbelt fastened: Keep your seatbelt on and stay inside the vehicle until the shaking stops. Make children stay in their car seats.
Cover your head and neck: If possible, lean forward and cover your head and neck with your arms to protect yourself from any falling objects.

WAIT: Stay Inside the Vehicle

Stay in your vehicle: Once you've found a safe spot, remain in your vehicle. Your car can provide some protection from falling debris.

After the Shaking Stops

Assess the Situation

If a power line falls on your vehicle: Stay inside and wait until an emergency worker removes the wire, your car will protect you from shock.
Check for injuries: Check yourself and any passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, provide first aid if you are able.
Inspect your vehicle: If it is safe, get out and look for any damage to your vehicle that may affect its operation, such as broken windows, leaks, or structural damage.
Decide if it is safer to stay put or move: It may be safer to stay where you are, particularly if there is chaos on the roads, or even leave your car in an out of the way spot and travel by foot to your destination.
Check road conditions: Be aware that roads may be damaged, and debris might block your path. You may have to wait for responders to clear the road.

Stay Informed and Limit Calls

Turn on the radio: Listen to your car radio or an emergency alert system for updates and instructions from local authorities.
Avoid using your phone: Although your first instinct may be to contact friends and relatives, unless it's an emergency, avoid using your phone to keep lines open for emergency responders.
Call for help: If needed, report severe injuries or immediate danger. Wireless service may quickly become compromised, so reserve your phone to call for help.

Driving After the Earthquake

Only drive if necessary: Drive to get to a safe place or to move your car out of the way. Once there, avoid driving until travel has been cleared by authorities. Unless there is an emergency once safe, stay off the roads.
Drive slowly and carefully: Watch for cracks and breaks in the pavement and never drive over a downed power line or debris.
Keep an eye out for hazards: Expect traffic light outages and stay alert for panicked or distracted drivers around you.
Avoid bridges and overpasses: If possible, avoid driving on bridges and overpasses, as they may have been weakened by the earthquake even if there isn’t any visible damage.
Be wary of potential landslides and falling debris: If you are driving in a mountainous or rocky area, loose dirt, gravel and debris could dislodge well after the shaking stops.
Go directly home or to your family meet-up location: Do not go sightseeing through damaged areas. You will only interfere with the relief efforts. Keep streets clear for emergency vehicles.

Be Prepared for Aftershocks

Expect aftershocks: Aftershocks are common following an earthquake. Be prepared to pull over and stop your vehicle again if the ground starts shaking.
Be vigilant: Aftershocks can easily dislodge concrete from damaged buildings and other structures. Go slow and be aware of your surroundings.

Earthquakes are unpredictable and can be extremely dangerous, especially when you're driving. By staying calm, pulling over safely, and following these guidelines, you can help protect yourself and your passengers during and after an earthquake. Always be prepared and stay informed to navigate these situations with confidence and caution.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES